Strasbourg: Unity is our greatest strength, President of the Republic of Cyprus, Nikos Christodoulides stressed on Tuesday as he presented the priorities of the Cyprus Presidency of the Council of the EU before the European Parliament in Strasbourg.
According to Cyprus News Agency, the President emphasized the importance of collective action, stating, "Europe's Future, our Future, will ultimately be measured by our ability to act together. Unity is our greatest strength. And only by acting together, across institutions and across Member States, we can translate unity into action." He noted that the Cyprus Presidency began at a pivotal moment for the Union, requiring united action for a more autonomous and globally engaged Europe.
President Christodoulides expressed both pride and humility while addressing the Members of the European Parliament (MEPs). He acknowledged the achievements of the Union, describing it as "the greatest political project the world has seen" and a "global trade powerhouse." He stressed the essence of the European project as a "Union of equality" where every member state can lead and represent the Union, emphasizing that the Union's strength lies in its ability to evolve, especially during crises.
The President highlighted the challenges facing Europe, including geopolitical and geoeconomic shifts, Russian aggression against Ukraine, instability in the Middle East, trade tensions, and climate change. He urged for deeper integration and collective efforts to shape change and defend European values and borders.
Outlining the Presidency's programme, President Christodoulides focused on five pillars. The first pillar emphasized autonomy through security, defense, and readiness, with a special reference to Ukraine and Cyprus's own experience with military occupation. He assured unwavering support for Ukraine and the need to build a stronger European Security Architecture.
The second pillar, autonomy through competitiveness, addressed Europe's geoeconomic competition and technological advancement. President Christodoulides called for a pragmatic response to these challenges, prioritizing the modernization of industries and advancing Green and Digital transitions.
The President also discussed a Union open to the world, highlighting the significance of enlargement as a transformative geopolitical tool. He shared Cyprus's experience of EU accession, emphasizing the need for a united and reunified Europe.
The fourth pillar focused on a Union of values, advocating for affordable housing and addressing cyberbullying. The President promised to enhance medical supply chains and health system integration, ensuring no one is left behind.
Lastly, President Christodoulides expressed his commitment to engaging constructively with partners and institutions, aiming to deliver an ambitious financial framework for the Union's future.